Image display operation device and image forming apparatus including the image display operation device

ABSTRACT

An image forming apparatus includes a document reader, a storage for storing image data, an image output unit and a control unit. The control unit includes: a function setup controller for setting up the image output conditions of output images; and a control-unit side controller having a function of displaying a function setup screen corresponding to the function setup controller, on a display panel. The function setup controller has an additional input mode having a function of reading documents a multiple number of times to form multiple sheaves of documents. The additional input mode includes: an individual setup function of setting up individual image output conditions for each sheaf of documents and an all-in setup function of setting up identical image output conditions for all sheaves of documents. When the additional input mode is set up, the control unit-side controller offers a display of a setup change suggestion of the image output conditions for the next input on the display screen at the stage where the first image data input has been completed.

This Nonprovisional application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(a) on Patent Application No. 2010-190590 filed in Japan on 27 Aug.2010, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION (1) Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as acopier, printer, facsimile machine or the like, in particular, relatingto an image forming apparatus having a function of setting up the imageoutput conditions of images to be output based on input image data.

(2) Description of the Prior Art

Recently, there have been known image forming apparatus that include aninput means having a function of receiving additional input of imagedata and an output means performing image output based on the image datainput through the input means, and have a function of setting up theimage output conditions of the images to be output by the output means.In such an image forming apparatus, it is possible to simply set upand/or change the image output conditions of images to be output beforeexecution of the job.

As a prior art, there has been disclosed an image forming apparatushaving a function of reading documents several times (for example,continuous reading and copying function), in which the display screen isswitched from the preview of the currently displayed document sheaf tothe preview of the document sheaf that has been scanned before or afterthe current one, by operating the forward jump button or backward jumpbutton (see Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-open2008-306469).

Here, the continuous reading and copying function means a function inwhich when documents are scanned by using an automatic document feeder,images of documents, which have been set and scanned multiple times bythe automatic document feeder, are output collectively.

In general, when the continuous reading and copying function is used,the continuous reading mode is set up as the operation mode. Then, adocument or a multiple number of documents are set and the start key ispressed so as to perform reading of the set documents. When the readingof the set documents has been completed, another set of documents isplaced and the start key is pressed. This process is repeated.

When reading of all the documents has been completed in the above way,the continuous reading end key is pressed. When the continuous readingend key is pressed, printing of the scanned images is started.

According to the above-described image forming apparatus, when documentimages have been captured by the continuous reading and copyingfunction, it is possible to promptly switch the preview display from thecurrently displayed document sheaf to the document sheaf that has beenread previously or subsequently.

However, the technology in Patent Document 1 only discloses thecontinuous reading and copying function when documents are continuouslyscanned a multiple number of times, whereas there is no reference tosetup of image output conditions for outputting images at the secondreading and after, such as one-sided or dual-sized printing, printing oftwo pages on one sheet, color printing or monochrome printing andothers. Therefore, there is the problem that if the user wants to makesetup of image output conditions different between one document sheafand another, it is impossible to deal with such a situation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention has been devised in view of the above prior artproblems, it is therefore an object of the present invention to providean image forming apparatus that enables the user to set up image outputconditions in accordance with the finish the user wants when image dataof documents etc. is continuously scanned a multiple number of times.

The first aspect of the invention resides in an image forming apparatuscomprising:

an input unit having a function of receiving additional input of imagedata;

a storing unit storing the image data input from the input unit;

an output unit for performing image output based on the image datastored in storing unit; and,

an image display control device, and is characterized in that the imagedisplay control device includes:

a function setup controller having a function of setting up image outputconditions of an image to be output from the output unit;

a function setup image preparation controller for preparing a functionsetup screen that is related so as to actuate the function setupcontroller;

a display unit having a display screen for displaying the function setupscreen; and,

a display controller having a function of displaying the function setupscreen on the display unit,

the function setup controller has an additional input mode having afunction of receiving separate input of image data a multiple number oftimes to form a set of image data at every input,

the additional input mode includes:

an individual setup function of setting up individual image outputconditions for each set of image data at every input; and,

an all-in setup function of setting up identical image output conditionsfor all sets of image data input individually,

the display controller offers a display of a setup change suggestion ofthe image output conditions for the next input, on the display screen atthe stage where the first image data input has been completed when theadditional input mode is set up.

The second aspect of the present invention resides in that, when theadditional input mode is set up and if the second image outputconditions for additionally input image data are different from thefirst image output conditions for the previously input image data, thefunction setup controller makes the second image output conditions validfor only the image data that is additionally input after the secondimage output conditions has been set up.

The third aspect of the present invention resides in that, when theadditional input mode is set up, the function setup controller makes itpossible to set up the second image output conditions for additionallyinput image data in the same manner as the first image output conditionsfor the previously input image data is set up.

The fourth aspect of the present invention resides in that, when theadditional input mode is set up, the display controller displays asingle control key as the control key for directing the image output.

For example, as an operation key for directing a start of printing, asingle copy start key may be displayed instead of displaying two startkeys, i.e., a start key for monochrome copy and a start key for colorcopy.

The fifth aspect of the present invention resides in that, when theadditional input mode is set up, at the stage where additional input iscompleted after setup change of the image output conditions foradditionally input image data, the display controller displays a setupdirecting key for setting up identical output conditions for all themultiple sets of image data, on the display screen of the display unit.

The sixth aspect of the present invention resides in that, when theadditional input mode is set up and when a direction of setting upidentical image output conditions for all the multiple sets of imagedata is given, the function setup controller makes it possible to set upa finishing process for all the multiple sets of image data.

In the present invention, the finishing process may include a processimplemented by a post-processor such as stapling, punching or the liketo bind the paper with images printed thereon when the paper is outputafter the completion of image forming in the image forming apparatus.

The seventh aspect of the present invention resides in that, when theadditional input mode is not set up and if the second image outputconditions for the additionally input second image data are differentfrom the first image output conditions for the previously input firstimage data, the function setup controller makes the second image outputconditions valid for both the first image data and the second imagedata.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possiblefor the user to use a different mode in accordance with the finish theuser wants.

It is also possible to perform additional input by designating differentsettings from those for the first input of image data.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possibleto make the settings different before and after an additional input.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, it is possibleto designate new settings different from the previous settings in orderto change the setup for each set of image data.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, displaying onlya single control key enables the user to start copying withoutconfusion. That is, in the additional input mode, color designation maybe different from one unit of image data to another, and if there aremultiple control keys for directing copy start the user may be confused.This configuration can prevent this.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, it is possibleto set up a finishing process for all the sets of image data that havebeen input.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, it is possibleto produce image output that is finished in complex combination ofsettings in accordance with the conditions the user wants.

Specifically, for example, multiple sheaves of documents (sets of imagedata) each having different settings such as dual-sided setting, colormode, page integration, etc., can be stapled as a whole while keeping upthe different settings, this realizing a new way of usage, that is,production of integrated printed matter.

According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, it is possibleto designate the same settings for all the sets of image data that havebeen input.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an illustrative view showing an overall configuration of animage forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is an illustrative view schematically showing the internalmechanisms of the image forming apparatus;

FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram showing a hardware configuration ofthe image forming apparatus;

FIG. 4 is an illustrative view showing display regions on a touch paneldisplay of the image forming apparatus;

FIG. 5 is an illustrative view showing a screen example displayed on thetouch panel display;

FIG. 6 is an illustrative view showing one display mode example of adisplay panel of the touch panel display;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an electric configuration of a controlunit in the image forming apparatus;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the touch paneldisplay of the control unit;

FIG. 9 is an illustrative view showing an initial screen in copy mode inan image forming apparatus of example 1;

FIG. 10 is an illustrative view showing a display screen when documentoutput conditions are set up in high-volume document mode in the imageforming apparatus;

FIG. 11 is an illustrative view showing the basic screen in copy modewhen setup of document output conditions in high-volume document mode iscompleted in the image forming apparatus;

FIG. 12 is an illustrative view showing a display screen on whichpreview display of a document sheaf is given after a document readingoperation has been completed in the image forming apparatus;

FIG. 13 is an illustrative view showing a display screen on whichpreview display of a plurality of document sheaves including anadditional document sheaf is given when an additional reading operationhas been performed after a document reading operation in the imageforming apparatus;

FIG. 14 is an illustrative view showing another preview display examplerepresenting scanned document sheaves;

FIG. 15A is an illustrative view showing a state where the setup ofimage output conditions is modified at the time of additional reading inhigh-volume document mode in the image forming apparatus of example 1;

FIG. 15B is an illustrative view showing a state of image output inhigh-volume document mode;

FIG. 16 an illustrative view showing an initial screen in copy mode inan image forming apparatus of example 2;

FIG. 17 is an illustrative view showing a display screen on whichpreview of a document sheaf is displayed after document reading has beencompleted in the image forming apparatus;

FIG. 18A is an illustrative view showing a state where the setup ofimage output conditions is modified in normal mode at the time ofadditional reading in the image forming apparatus of example 2; and,

FIG. 18B is an illustrative view showing the state of image output innormal mode.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The embodiment of the present invention will hereinafter be describedwith reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is an illustrative view of one example mode of carrying out thepresent invention, showing an overall configuration of an image formingapparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2is an illustrative view schematically showing the internal mechanisms ofthe image forming apparatus. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagramshowing a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus. FIG. 4is an illustrative view showing preview display region on a touch paneldisplay of the image forming apparatus. FIG. 5 is an illustrative viewshowing a screen example displayed on the touch panel display.

An image forming apparatus 100 according to the embodiment of thepresent invention includes, as shown in FIG. 1, includes: a documentreader (input unit) 102 having a function of receiving additional inputof image data; an image forming portion (output unit) 104 for forming animage on a recording medium based on the image data input throughdocument reader 102; and a control unit (image display control device;display controller) 120 including a display panel (display portion) 132for displaying preview images in a preview representation, based onimage data and having a function of displaying display images based onthe image data input from document reader 102 and a function of settingup the image output conditions of images output on the recording Mediumfrom image forming portion 104.

Control unit 120 functioning as the display controller has a function ofsetting up the image output conditions of images output from imageforming portion 104 and is configured so that the image outputconditions of images to be output can be set up on display panel 132.

The multiple document images displayed on display panel 132 may includepreview display images of document images captured by the documentreader etc., of image forming apparatus 100 and preview images offinished images to be formed on recording paper by the image formingportion.

Image forming apparatus 100 is a kind of an image processing apparatus.The image display control device according to the present invention isalso applicable to image processing apparatus and electronic appliancesother than the image forming apparatus of this kind.

Further, image forming apparatus 100 includes a plurality of operationalmodes, and is equipped with a display device for displaying informationfor each operational mode. The display device is preferably constructedso as to be able to display information the user wants in a userfriendly manner even if the user does not remember the screenconfiguration when the operational mode is changed over.

Here, image forming apparatus 100 includes a touch panel display(control screen) that can be controlled by both gesture control andtouch control other than gesture control, but the image formingapparatus may use a touch panel display that can be controlled by touchcontrol only. Alternatively, the image forming apparatus may include adisplay panel that cannot be touch-controlled but can display only, withkeys for control.

Here, gesture control means controls that are related to various kindsof movements of fingers in combination with GUI (Graphic UserInterface), such as responses in accordance with the distance moved andspeed of the fingers, double-tapping, the moving fingers trace and thelike that are given with meanings.

This image forming apparatus 100 forms images on recording paper basedon electrophotography.

Image forming apparatus 100 includes, as its operation modes, copy mode,facsimile mode (FAX mode), document filing mode (a mode in which scannedimages are stored in a storage inside the image forming apparatus) andmail mode (a mode in which scanned images are transmitted in the form ofan attachment file to an e-mail). This image forming apparatus 100 mayfurther have a network printer mode.

The image forming apparatus 100 of the present embodiment changes thedisplay content on the screen every time the operation mode is switchedas shown in FIG. 1. Further, the printing mechanism is not limited toelectrophotography.

To begin with, image forming apparatus 100 will be described.

Image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment includesdocument reader 102, image forming portion 104, a paper feed portion106, a paper output processor 108 and a control unit 120, as shown inFIG. 1.

Control unit 120 is formed of a touch panel display 130 and a displaycontrol portion 140. Touch panel display 130 is comprised of a displaypanel 132 of a liquid crystal panel or the like and a touch panel (touchcontrol detecting means) 134 that is laid over display panel 132 todetect the positions the user presses with fingers. Display controlportion 140 includes an indication lamp 142, a power key 144, anenergy-save key 146 and a home key 148 that resets the display contentof touch panel display 130 to the home screen for operational modeselection.

In this way, image forming apparatus 100 has touch panel display 130 asa main control device and also has a display control portion 140 thatincludes the hardware keys and indication lamps. The keys (power key144, energy-save key 146 and home key 148) on display control portion140 are given as hardware buttons, in contrast to software buttonsformed by touch panel display 130.

Note that image forming apparatus 100 should not be limited to thatincluding display control portion 140 of this kind, but may be providedwith touch panel display 130 only. That is, it will work as long as theinitial screen of the selected operational mode can be actuated when theuser selects an operational mode on the home screen displayed on touchpanel display 130. Next, the operational modes of this image formingapparatus 100 will be described.

(Copy Mode)

The operation of the copy mode of image forming apparatus 100 will bedescribed.

In this copy mode, image reader (which will be referred to hereinbelowas “scanner”) 102 and image forming portion 104 operate mainly.

A document placed on a document placement table is read as image data byscanner 102 and the read image data is input to a CPU 300 of amicrocomputer etc. shown in FIG. 3, where the image data undergoesvarious kinds of image processing, and the processed image data isoutput to image forming portion 104.

As shown in FIG. 2, image forming portion 104 is a mechanism that printsimages of documents given as image data onto recording mediums(recording paper in most cases), including a photoreceptor drum 222, acharging device 224, a laser scan unit (which will be referred tohereinbelow as “LSU”) 226, a developing device 228, a transfer device230, a cleaning unit 232, a fixing unit 234, an unillustrated chargeeraser and other devices.

Also, image forming portion 104 is provided with a main feed path 236and a reverse feed path 238. The recording paper fed from paper feedportion 106 is conveyed along main feed path 236. Paper feed portion 106draws recording paper, one sheet at a time, from a stack of recordingpaper, held in a paper feed cassette 240 or set on a manual feed tray242 and delivers the recoding paper to main feed path 236 of imageforming portion 104.

In the course of the recording paper being conveyed along main feed path236 of image forming portion 104, the recording paper passes through andbetween photoreceptor drum 222 and transfer device 230 and then passesthrough fixing device 234 to perform printing for the recording paper.

While photoreceptor drum 222 rotates in one direction, its surface iscleaned by cleaning device 232 and the charge erasing device, thenuniformly electrified by charging device 224.

LSU 226 modulates the laser beam based on the image data to be printedand repeatedly scans the laser beam over the photoreceptor drum 222surface in the main scan direction, to form an electrostatic latentimage on the photoreceptor drum 222 surface.

Developing unit 228 supplies toner to the photoreceptor drum 222 surfaceand develops the electrostatic latent image to form a toner image on thephotoreceptor drum 222 surface.

Transfer device 230 transfers the toner image on the photoreceptor drum222 surface to the recording paper which passes through the nip betweenthe transfer device 230 and photoreceptor drum 222.

Fixing device 234 includes a heat roller 248 for heating recording paperand a pressing roller 250 for pressing recording paper. The recordingpaper is heated by heat roller 248 and pressed by pressing roller 250 sothat the toner image transferred to the recording paper is fixed to therecording paper. A heater in the heat roller is heated by the powersupplied to this fixing unit 234 so as to control and keep heat roller248 at a temperature suitable for fixing. When the apparatus enters theenergy saving mode, for instance the power supplied to this heater isstopped or cut down.

Arranged at the junction between main feed path 236 and reverse feedpath 238 is a branch claw 244. When printing is performed on one side ofrecording paper only, branch claw 244 is positioned so as to lead therecording paper from fixing device 234 toward a paper output tray 246 orpaper output processor 108.

When printing is performed on both sides of recording paper, branch claw244 is rotated in the predetermined direction so that the recordingpaper is once conveyed toward the paper output tray 246 side. Then, thepaper is switched back and conveyed toward reverse feed path 238. Therecording paper then passes through reverse feed path 238 and isinverted upside down and fed to main feed path 236 again. The recordingpaper is once again printed on its rear side in the course of main feedpath 236 and lead to paper output tray 246 or paper output processor108.

The recording paper thus printed is lead to paper output tray 246 orpaper output processor 108 and discharged to either paper output tray246 or each of paper output trays 110 of paper output processor 108.

In paper output processor 108, a plurality of recording sheets aresorted and discharged to individual paper output trays 110, and/or eachset of recording sheets is punched or stapled. For example, whenmultiple copies of printed documents are prepared, the printed recordingsheets are sorted and discharged to paper output trays 110 so that onecopy of the printed documents is allotted to individual paper outputtray 110, and the printed documents on each paper output tray 110 arepunched by a punching unit 111 or stapled by a stapling unit 112 toprepare individual printed material.

(Facsimile Mode)

Next, the operation in facsimile mode will be described.

In this facsimile mode, the transmitting operation is mainly effected bydocument reader (scanner) 102 and a FAX communicator 160, as shown inFIG. 3. The receiving operation is mainly effected by FAX communicator160 and image forming portion 104.

(Transmitting Operation)

The transmitting operation is performed by the steps of: selecting thefacsimile mode, reading image data from a document placed on thedocument placement table by means of document reader 102, supplying theread image data to CPU 300 made up of a microcomputer etc. shown in FIG.3 where the image data is subjected to various kinds of image processes,and outputting the thus obtained image data to the FAX communicator (FAXcommunicator 160 in FIG. 3).

As shown in FIG. 3, FAX communicator 160 of the transmission side imageforming apparatus 100 connects the selected transmitter side line to thedesignated destination, converts the image data into communication dataconforming to the facsimile communication standard and transmits thecommunication data to the receiver side facsimile machine (e.g., imageforming apparatus 100 having a facsimile function).

(Communication Operation)

When connection of the line is established, FAX communicator 160 ofimage forming apparatus 100 on the receiver side detects a communicationrequest signal from FAX communicator 160 of image forming apparatus 100on the transmitter side and sends a response signal. Then, for example,FAX communicators 160 on both the transmitter and receiver sidesexchange facsimile performance information of their own with each otherand determine the communication rate and coding and code correctionscheme of the image data within the available maximum capacity to set upa modem communication scheme. The data is transmitted based on thiscommunication scheme, from FAX communicator 160 of image formingapparatus 100 on the transmitter side to FAX communicator 160 of imageforming apparatus 100 on the receiver side. When data transmission isended, the line is cut off.

(Receiving Operation)

The FAX communicator 160 of image forming apparatus 100 on the receiverside converts the received data into image data and sends the data toimage forming portion 104. Here, the received data may be converted intoimage data by image forming portion 104. Image forming portion 104prints images of documents represented by the image data converted fromthe received data, onto recording paper, in the same manner as theabove-described operation in copy mode.

Next, the control block configuration of image forming apparatus 100will be described with reference to the drawings.

As shown in FIG. 3, image forming apparatus 100 includes: control unit120 that allows the user to set copy mode and facsimile mode; a ROM 306for storing programs etc.; a hard disk 302 serving as a non-volatilestorage area that can hold programs, data and the like even if the poweris cut off; and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 308 that offers a storingarea when a program is executed.

Image forming apparatus 100 further includes: a bus 310 connected toimage reader 102, image forming portion 104, FAX communicator 160,control unit 120, ROM 306, hard disk 302 and RAM 308; and CPU 300 thatis connected to bus 310 to realize general functions as an image formingapparatus.

Hard disk 302 records (stores) files of image data of documents scannedby the image forming apparatus 100. Hard disk 302 also stores initialscreen data for each operational mode. The files and data stored in harddisk 302 can also be recorded in ROM 306.

Stored in ROM 306 are programs, data and the like necessary forcontrolling the operation of image forming apparatus 100. As the datastored in ROM 306 with the programs, the initial screen data for eachoperational mode may be stored. CPU 300 controls image forming apparatus100 in accordance with the programs and data stored in ROM 306 andperforms control associated with each function of image formingapparatus 100.

As shown in FIG. 3, a public line for exchange of image data isconnected to FAX communicator 160 of this image forming apparatus 100while a network line is connected to a network interface 304. Thisnetwork line may be connected to a computers etc. that use this imageforming portion 100 as a network printer or may be connected via theInternet to a computer etc. that is identified by a designated URL(Uniform Resource Locator). When connected to the Internet in this way,the image forming apparatus 100 can obtain the necessary information viathe Internet.

RAM 308 offers a function as a working memory for temporarily recordingthe result of the operation and processing by CPU 300 and a function asa frame memory for recording image data.

Control of image reader 102, image forming portion 104, touchpaneldisplay 130 and display control portion 140 forming control unit 120,ROM 306, hard disk 302 and RAM 308 is performed by CPU 300 executingpredetermined programs. Here, control unit 120 communicates with CPU 300by way of an input/output interface.

Control unit 120 is given as a board-like panel that is tilted so as toallow the user ease of view. Control unit 120 includes touch paneldisplay 130 in the left area and display control portion 140 (includingindication lamp 142 and hardware buttons, namely, power key 144,energy-save key 146 and home key 148) in the right area on the topthereof. Touch panel display 130 and display control portion 140 areintegrally provided in control unit 120.

As described above, this touch panel display 130 is formed of displaypanel 132 and touch panel 134 that is laid over display panel 132.

Displayed on touch panel display 130 are the home screen for selectionof the operational mode in this image forming apparatus 100, the currentstatus of this image forming apparatus 100, the status of destinationselection, job processing status and the like.

Displayed in the preview display region of display panel 132 areselection buttons as software keys. When the displayed area of aselection button is pushed by a finger, touch panel 134 detects thepushed position. Then, the position on which touch panel 134 is pressedis compared with the positions of selection buttons so as to performselection of an operational mode of image forming apparatus 100,functional setting, operational instructions, and the like. In additionto this touch control (command input control based on the position ofthe user's pressing), this image forming apparatus 100 also supports theabove-mentioned gesture control (command input control based on thetrace of user's control motion).

Further, indication lamp 142 of display control portion 140 is made upof a LED (Light Emitting Diode) for instance and is controlled by CPU300 so as to turn on/off (/flash on and off). When the user presses downpower key 144 that is provided separately in addition to the main powerswitch, this image forming apparatus 100 comes out of standby mode (inwhich, for example, only fax reception is permitted with the main powerturned on) to active mode so that the whole operational modes of thisimage forming apparatus 100 can be used. Indication lamp 142 comes on inlink with this status. Further, when a predetermined period has elapsedwithout receiving any user input, or when the user presses energy-savekey 146, this image forming apparatus 100 comes out of active mode intoenergy save mode so that only part of the operational modes of imageforming apparatus 100 are operational. Indication lamp 142 flashes onand off in link with this status. Further, when the user pressesenergy-save key 146 in this energy save mode, the image formingapparatus 100 comes out of energy save mode into active mode. Home key148 is a hardware key for retuning the display of touch panel display130 into the initial condition (home screen). It is noted that theoperations when power key 144, energy-save key 146 and home key 148 arepressed should not be limited to these.

The hardware keys on display control portion 140 (power key 144,energy-save key 146 and home key 148) may be embedded with a key lampcontrolled by CPU 300 so as to turn on/off (/flash). For example, thiskey lamp may be a round type key ring-like lighting or center lighting.This key lamp turns on at the timing that the hardware key is permittedto use as a control device (at the timing that operation is performedwhen the hardware key is used).

Image forming apparatus 100 has the aforementioned two operational modes(copy mode and facsimile mode). Software buttons for function settingsin each operational mode are displayed on touch panel display 130, andalso the preview as the on-screen form of forming images, keys fordestination setting and the like are displayed as necessary.

When the operational mode is different from that which the user wants,touch panel display 130 displays another screen. Even in such a case, inorder for the user to easily find the information the user requests,touch panel display 130 is divided into multiple regions (which also aregiven in a size variable manner) so as to display necessary informationin each region.

In particular, in this image forming apparatus 100, when one operationalmode is selected on the home screen of touch panel display 130 providedas the main display control device, the initial screen of theoperational mode is displayed.

In this initial screen, (1) the basic layout is formed of five areas,namely “system region”, “function selecting region”, “preview region”,“action panel region” and “task trigger region”, which are appropriatelyarranged, so that the user is able to easily perform input of settingsfrom top left to bottom right (in the same manner as the user movestheir gaze and fingers in the conventional machine which is not providedwith a large scale touch panel display 130). Further, (2) the concept ofthe displays of the five regions is consistent in all operational modes,so that the user is able to operate without confusion when anotheroperational mode is used.

The following description will be given on the configuration of thebasic layout.

The basic layout in touch panel display 130 will be described withreference to the drawings.

As shown in FIG. 4, the basic layout of touch panel display 130 isdesigned in the laterally long touch panel display 130 such that asystem region 1000 is arranged at the topmost part, a preview region(preview display region) 3000 in the center of the screen, a functionsettings/confirmation region 2000 on the left side of preview region3000, an action panel region 4000 on the upper right part of previewregion 3000, and a task trigger region (control key displayed region)5000 on the lower right of preview region 3000. Here, the laterally longtouch panel display 130 is formed of, for example, 1024 pixels wide×600pixels high. Further, function settings/confirmation region 2000 will bewritten hereinbelow as function selecting region 2000.

It is noted that the number of regions in touch panel display 130 shouldnot be limited to five. Also, the horizontal arrangement should not belimited so that the horizontal arrangement may be reversed right sideleft, for example, depending on the user's dominant hand. Further, theposition of system region 1000 may be disposed at the lowermost part.Alternatively, the system region 1000 may be undisplayed depending onthe status or settings.

System region 1000 displays the current status of this image formingapparatus 100, e.g., the title of the operational mode in control andthe status and conditions of image forming apparatus 100. For example,displayed in system region 1000 are the name of operational mode, thecut-in key, the log-in user name, the job status in progress, the usagestatus of built-in memory, time and the like.

In function selecting region 2000, settings in each function, displayswitching, function selecting menu (icons, buttons, etc.) operated byuser to confirm settings are variably displayed in a selected displaystyle, i.e., in icon mode, regular mode or express mode. In icon mode,only icons for function setting are displayed in function selectingregion 2000 so as to maximize the size of preview region 3000. Inexpress mode, the display of function selecting region 2000 is enlargedso as to allow the user to set the function all at once though the sizeof preview region 3000 is minimized. In regular mode, preview region3000 is sized between that in the icon mode and that in the express modewhile in function selecting region 2000 the text of function titles aredisplayed together with functional setting icons.

These modes, i.e., icon mode, regular mode and express mode are switchedfrom one to another based on user control. That is, the size of previewregion 3000 is modified and displayed in accordance with user control.In this way, since icons are able to give information to the user byusing limited area, it is preferable that every function is given withan icon so as to be able to enlarge the display of preview region 3000.

This function selecting region 2000 includes at its bottom a group ofselect buttons 2010 for switching the display style in functionselecting region 2000. Arranged in the group of select buttons 2010 arean icon mode entering button 2012 for displaying function selectingregion 2000 in icon mode, a favorite button 2014 for displaying thefunctions registered as “favorites”, a check button 2016 for displayingthe functions whose settings have been modified, a list button 2018 fordisplaying a list of all the functions that can be designated in theselected operation mode, a regular mode entering button 2020 fordisplaying function selecting region 2000 in regular mode, and anexpress mode entering button 2022 for displaying function selectingregion 2000 in express mode.

Here, when there are many pieces of information to be displayed infunction selecting region 2000, the information is displayed in thisfunction selecting region 2000, in a vertically movable manner. In thiscase, this group of select buttons 2010 is not moved but constantlydisplayed in the bottom-most portion of function selecting region 2000.

Preview region 3000 displays the image of the output pages of the(finished) document. The image is displayed using dummy data or scanneddata, and the displayed image in preview region 3000 is revised everytime the user changes the finish. There are two modes of displaying thefinish in this preview region 3000: the display of the final previewwith a dummy image in virtual mode before scanning and the display ofthe final preview with actual images in scan-in mode after scanning. Thevirtual mode further has two types, before setting documents and aftersetting documents.

At the bottom of this preview region 3000 there is a group of previewselect buttons 3010 for changing the display style in preview region3000. The group of preview select buttons 3010 includes a rotate-leftbutton 3016 for rotating the image left 90 degrees and a rotate-rightbutton 3018 for rotating the image right 90 degrees and a zoom bar 3020.Other than these, for example a change color button 3012 and previewcontrol button 3014 are arranged.

With this, when rotate-left button 3016 is touched once, the previewrotates 90 degrees left. When the button is touched twice, the previewis rotated 180 degrees left (inverted upside down). Alternatively, whenthe image of the finished document displayed in the preview region isgesture-controlled (by rotating the document image 180 degreescounterclockwise with the fingertip), the preview is rotated 180 degreesleft or inverted upside down.

When rotate-right button 3018 is touched once, the preview rotates 90degrees right. When the button is touched twice, the preview is rotated180 degrees right (inverted upside down). Alternatively, when the imageof the finished document displayed in the preview region isgesture-controlled (by rotating the document image 180 degrees clockwisewith the fingertip), the preview is rotated 180 degrees right orinverted upside down.

When the (+) button 3020A of zoom bar 3020 is touched, or when bar 3020Cis gesture-controlled (by the “drag or slide” gesture) toward the (+)button 3020A, the preview image is enlarged. Alternatively, when theimage of the finished document displayed in the preview region isgesture-controlled (on the document image by the “pinch out/pinch open”gesture with fingertips), the preview image is enlarged. Here, the“drag” gesture is an action of moving the finger. The “pinch out/pinchopen” is an action of spreading the two fingertips apart.

When the (−) button 3020B of zoom bar 3020 is touched, or when bar 3020Cis gesture-controlled (by “drag or slide” gesture) toward the (−) button3020B, the preview image is reduced. Alternatively, when the image ofthe finished document displayed in the preview region isgesture-controlled (on the document image by the “pinch in/pinch close”gesture with fingertips), the preview image is reduced. Here, the “pinchin/pinch close” is an action of bringing the two fingertips together.

When there are many pages of document images to be displayed in previewregion 3000, touchable displayed page select buttons (page number inputbuttons, page up and down buttons, single page display button andmultiple page display button, etc.) may be displayed. In this case, itis also possible to turn over or return the page of the document to bepreviewed by a sliding touch (flicking) of the document image. Further,when the document image to be displayed in preview region 3000 is large,scroll bars that can be touched or gesture-controlled may be displayed.The “flick” gesture is a soft sweeping action with the finger.

Action panel region 4000 displays information such as hint, advice andsuggestion for operation and control. Display in this action panelregion 4000 is given such that when a particular function is selected bya certain user, the functions associated with the subject function maybe displayed, another function as to the subject function may bedisplayed in a purpose-oriented manner, or the function that wasselected in the past in combination with the subject function by thesame user or a user of the group to which this user belongs may bedisplayed as a “recommended function”.

Task trigger region 5000 displays trigger items that the user operatesin order to actually cause the image forming apparatus 100 to operateafter all the settings in the operational mode have been completed. Anexample is the start button (software button) for starting theoperation. Here, since information on a lack of a consumable supply isalso related to the unfeasibility of the task in the operational modesneeding a printing process (other than fax transmission), this should bealso displayed in this “task trigger region”.

In this case, it is also preferable that the start button is displayedonly when the start button can be pressed down. The condition in whichthe start button can be pressed down, means a state where all settingshave been completed and none of consumable supplies (recording paper andtoner) will run short in the case of an operational mode needing aprinting operation or a state where all the transmission parametersincluding destination have been set in the case of a fax mode(transmission) operation as the operational mode needing no printing.

The layout of these five regions is not changed even if the operationalmode is switched from one to another (in the initial screen of anyoperational mode). Further, each region may change in size, expanding orcontracting in the horizontal (longitudinal) direction of the screen oftouch panel display 130 as in the case where the display of functionselecting region 2000 (and preview region 3000) is switched between iconmode, regular mode and express mode.

The layout of the five regions is designed in light of the userinterfaces in conventional machines, by directing attention to user'spath of gaze and control. This arrangement leads the user to performsettings by moving their gaze from top left to bottom right and movingtheir input action (fingers of the dominant hand) from top left tobottom right.

In this arrangement, for switching the operational mode from one toanother, the user presses down home key 148 (FIG. 3) and selects anotheroperational mode on the home screen. In this way, it is possible tochange operational mode by way of the home screen.

(Initial Screen Display Operation in Copy Mode)

When copy mode is selected, the initial screen for copy mode isdisplayed on touch panel display 130 using copy mode initial screen dataloaded from hard disk 302 (FIG. 3) or the like.

In this occasion, a copy mode initial screen 7100 is displayed forexample, on touch panel display 130, as shown in FIG. 5. Copy modeinitial screen 7100 displays information using the five divided regionslaid out as described above.

In system region 1000 (FIG. 4) of copy mode initial screen 7100, areas1102, 1104, 1106, 1108, 1110, 1112, 1114 and 1116 are laid out as shownin FIG. 5.

Area 1102 denotes the operational mode being selected (copy mode in thiscase). Displayed in area 1102 is the name and/or icon of the operationalmode.

It is also preferred that a pulldown menu showing operational modes isdisplayed so as to allow for switching of operational mode when thisarea 1102 is touch-controlled, tapped or double-tapped (the same inother operational modes).

Area 1104 displays sub information entailing the selected operationalmode.

In area 1104 a cut-in key (software button) is displayed as subinformation. When this cut-in key is touch-controlled, tapped ordouble-tapped, a cut-in process can be actuated in copy mode.

Area 1106 displays the log-in user name.

In area 1108 a log-out button (software button) is displayed.

Area 1110 displays the status of the job in progress.

Area 1112 displays buttons (software buttons) related to job status.

That is, area 1112 displays the status of the job in progress with anicon. This job status is touch-controlled, tapped or double-tapped, thejob status information is displayed in detail. It is further preferablethat a button for suspending the selected job and the like is displayedin area 1112.

Area 1114 displays the communication status and area 1116 displays thecurrent time.

Displayed in function selecting region 2000 (FIG. 4) on copy modeinitial screen 7100 are a function selecting menu 2100 that allows theuser to select in copy mode and a group of select buttons 2010 describedabove. In the screen shown in FIG. 5, the function select menu isdisplayed in regular mode.

As shown in FIG. 5, the function select menu displayed in regular modeis composed of a group of icons 2100 and a group of texts 2120. As thefunction select menu displayed in function selecting region 2000, texts2122, 2124, 2126, 2128, 2130, 2132, 2134 and 2136 are displayed.

Text 2122 shows an icon 2102 for setting the number of copies and itsset content.

Text 2124 shows an icon 2104 for setting color mode and its set content.

Text 2126 shows an icon 2106 for setting copy density and its setcontent.

Text 2128 shows an icon 2108 for setting copy magnification and its setcontent.

Text 2130 shows an icon 2110 for setting the document type and its setcontent.

Text 2132 shows an icon 2112 for setting the paper type and its setcontent.

Text 2134 shows an icon 2114 for image edition and its set content.

Text 2136 shows an icon 2116 for layout edition and its set content.

Here, it should be noted that a greater number of items can be alsodisplayed in the function setting menu, in a vertically scrollablemanner with the position of select buttons 2010 fixed. In this case, thedisplayed items inclusive of hidden items above and below, can bechanged from one to another by any of touch control (scroll control) andgesture control (flick control in the vertical direction).

Here, the image edition is edition for one page document, and includes,as a lower-layered menu, frame deletion, printing menu, watermark, userstamp and the like. The layout edition is edition for multiple pages ofdocuments, and includes, as a lower-layered menu, page integration,binding margins, page change, centering and the like. Subordinates menusunder these will be displayed on touch panel display 130 by touching,taping or double-tapping icons 2102 to 2116 or texts 2112 to 2136.

Arranged in preview region 3000 (FIG. 4) on copy mode initial screen7100 are a document output (finish) image 3100 and a group of previewselect buttons 3010 stated above. In this arrangement, dummy data orscanned data is used to display image 3100, and the image 3100 ischanged and displayed in preview region 3000 every time the functionsetting menu in function selecting region 2000 is changed (the previewdisplay is changed).

Displayed in action panel region 4000 (FIG. 4) on copy mode initialscreen 7100 is information such as hint, advice and suggestion forcopying operation. Here, recommended functions in the copy mode that theuser selects are displayed as shown in FIG. 5. In this case, actionpanel region 4000 includes an area 4100 for displaying the content ofdisplayed information and areas 4102 to 4106 that serve in themselves assoftware buttons and display text indicating recommended functions.

When area 4102 is touch-controlled, tapped or double-tapped, a pulldownmenu of further detailed information for energy-saving in copying isdisplayed. In this case, for example a software button for entering thefunction setting screen for duplex copying is displayed with text“Duplex printing will save paper”, a software button for entering thefunction setting screen for page integration with text “Printingmultiple documents integrally will save paper”, and a software buttonfor entering the function setting screen for saddle stitch binding withtext “Printing can be done so as to bind the paper as a booklet”.

Displayed in task trigger region 5000 (FIG. 4) on copy mode initialscreen 7100 is a group of command buttons 5100. These command buttons5100 include a scan-in key (software button) 5102, a clear-all key(software button) 5104, a monochrome start key (software button) 5106and a color start key (software button) 5108.

Scan-in key 5102 is a key for causing image forming apparatus 100 toscan a document to obtain image data.

Clear-all key 5104 is a key for clearing the set functions.

Monochrome start key 5106 is a key for causing image forming apparatus100 to scan a document and perform monochrome copying.

Color start key 5108 is a key for causing image forming apparatus 100 toscan a document and perform color copying.

When a color setup key is provided, as a control key for directing imageoutput, either monochrome start key 5106 or color start key 5108 thatcorresponds to the designated color type may be displayed on the displayscreen.

In this way, when the user inputs a request in copy mode initial screen7100 displayed with information in five-divided regions, a copyingprocess is implemented in accordance with the request.

Next, the display modes of the touch panel display in image formingapparatus 100 will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 6 is an illustrative view showing one display mode example of thetouch panel display in the image forming apparatus.

As shown in FIG. 6, arranged on touch panel display 130 in image formingapparatus 100 are preview region 3000 in the center of the screen andfunction selecting region 2000 on the left side of preview region 3000.Action panel region 4000 is laid out on the upper right of previewregion 3000, and task trigger region 5000 is arranged under the actionpanel region 4000.

Displayed in preview region 3000 are a virtual ten-key pad 3001 and amimic display 3002 giving an image of the whole apparatus.

Displayed in task trigger region 5000 is a group of command buttons5100.

In the group of command buttons 5100, scan-in key 5102, clear-all key5104, monochrome start key 5106 and color start key 5108 are laid out.

Next, the electric configuration related to the screen display ofcontrol unit 120 will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an electric configuration of a controlunit in the image forming apparatus. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing aconfiguration of the touch panel display of the control unit.

As shown in FIG. 7, control unit 120 includes, in addition to displaypanel 132 and touch panel 134, an operated position detector 135, ascreen display portion 136, a display image generator 137 and controlunit-side controller (display controller) 131 for controlling processingand operation in control unit 120.

Image forming apparatus 100 includes document reader 102 for capturingimage data, an image processor 103, a storage 105 for storing image datainput through document reader 102 and an image output unit 107 such as aprinter, transmitter or the like for outputting images, all beingoperated and controlled by a main controller 101.

Document reader 102 has an additional reading function which enablesadditional reading (additional input) of additional documents aftercompletion of reading of desired documents (image data).

Operated position detector 135 detects the operated position on touchpanel 134.

Screen display portion 136 displays an image formed by display imagegenerator 137 on display panel 132.

Display image generator 137 prepares a predetermined image based onimage data input to the main body of image forming apparatus 100,following instructions from control unit-side controller 131 and alsohas a function of forming display images of document sheaves (imagedata) consisting of a series of multiple documents scanned by imagereader 102 (document sheaf display image generating function).

Control unit-side controller 131 is connected to main controller 101 ofthe main body of image forming apparatus 100 and functions as acontroller in touch panel display 130.

Now, control unit-side controller 131 will be described in detail.

As shown in FIG. 8, control unit-side controller 131 has a previewdisplay function of giving a display image based on the documentsscanned by document reader 102 on touch panel display 130 in a previewrepresentation and a scroll display function of multiple pages ofdisplay images given in a preview representation in a movable manner.

Control unit-side controller 131 further includes a document-sheafdisplay controller 1311 that provides a display image of a documentsheaf made up of a series of multiple documents scanned by documentreader 102, and gives display images of multiple document sheaves,including a display image of a document sheaf based on the documentsscanned before an additional scanning of documents (which will be calledhereinbelow a “previously scanned document sheaf”) and a display imageof a document sheaf based on the documents additionally scanned (whichwill be called hereinbelow as an “additional document sheaf”), in apreview representation in a distinctive manner on touch panel display130.

Control unit-side controller 131 includes: a function setup controller1312 having a function of setting up image output conditions of theimages to be output from image output unit 107; a function setup screenpreparation controller 1313 for preparing a function setup screen 1312 a(FIG. 10) that is related so as to actuate function setup controller1312; and a function setup screen display controller 1314 for displayingfunction setup screen 1312 a on display panel 132.

Function setup controller 1312 includes high-volume document mode(additional input mode) having a function of reading a plurality ofdocuments, by a multiple number of times (FIG. 10). The high-volumedocument mode has an individual setup function for setting up differentimage output conditions for each individual document sheaf among thescanned multiple sheaves of documents and an all-in setup function forsetting up the same image output conditions for all the scanned multiplesheaves of documents.

Here, the high-volume document mode in the present embodiment mayinclude a case where if, for example the volume of documents to bescanned exceeds the number of sheets accommodatable to the ADF(automatic document feeder), the remaining documents can be added later(additionally scanned) after a suspension of scanning. That is, aftersetting the documents to be added to the ADF, start key 5106 or 5108(FIG. 5) is pressed down to restart reading.

Further, when high-volume document mode is set up, and if the imageoutput conditions (the second image output conditions) for an additionaldocument sheaf are different from the image output conditions (the firstimage output conditions) for the previously scanned document sheaf,function setup controller 1312 makes the image output conditions (thesecond image output conditions) valid for only the additional documentsthat are scanned after setup of the new image output conditions (thesecond image output conditions).

Also, when high-volume document mode is set up, function setupcontroller 1312 permits the image output conditions (the second imageoutput conditions) for the additional document sheaf to be set up forall the functions.

Further, when high-volume document mode is set up and if setup of thesame image output conditions (the first image output conditions=thesecond image output conditions) for all the multiple sheaves ofdocuments is directed, it is possible to set up an all-in finishingprocess for the multiple document sheaves.

When high-volume document mode is set up, control unit-side controller131 displays a single control key as the control key for directing imageoutput, on display panel 132.

When high-volume document mode is not set up and if the second imageoutput conditions for an additional document sheaf are different fromthe first image output conditions for the previously scanned documentsheaf, the second image output conditions for the additional documentsheaf are made valid for all the documents including the document sheafbefore additional reading.

As a variational example, control unit-side controller 131 may include asetup direction controller that, when high-volume document mode isselected, sets up the same image output conditions for all the scannedmultiple document sheaves (the previously scanned document sheaf andadditional document sheaf) at the stage where additional documentreading has been completed after change of the setup of the second imageoutput conditions for the additional document sheaf of data, and thesetup directing key for this setup direction controller may be displayedon display panel 132. For example, function setup controller 1312 may beallotted as the setup direction controller, and an aftermentioned setupchange key 5109 in FIG. 12 may be allotted as the setup directing key.

Further, in the case of additional input mode, since color setting maybe different from one unit of image data to another, if there existmultiple control keys to start copying (monochrome start key 5106 andcolor start key 5108) there is a fear that the user is confused. To dealwith this, displaying only a single control key corresponding to thecolor setting, on the display screen enables the user to start a copyingoperation without confusion.

Next, some examples of additional reading of documents being implementedby document reader 102 will be described with reference to the drawings.

Example 1

Example 1 shows a case where document reading is set into high-volumedocument mode in image forming apparatus 100 and additional documentscanning is implemented.

FIG. 9 is an illustrative view showing the initial screen in copy modein the image forming apparatus of example 1. FIG. 10 is an illustrativeview showing the display screen when document output conditions are setup in high-volume document mode in the image forming apparatus. FIG. 11is an illustrative view showing the basic screen in copy mode when setupof document output conditions in high-volume document mode is completedin the image forming apparatus. FIG. 12 is an illustrative view showinga display screen on which preview display of a document sheaf is givenafter a document reading operation has been completed in the imageforming apparatus. FIG. 13 is an illustrative view showing a displayscreen on which preview display of a plurality of document sheavesincluding an additional document sheaf is given when an additionalreading operation has been performed after a document reading operationin the image forming apparatus. FIG. 14 is an illustrative view showinganother preview display example representing scanned document sheaves.

When documents to be copied are read in high-volume document mode inimage forming apparatus 100, the user selects the copy mode in the homescreen displayed on touch panel display 130 to display the initialscreen in copy mode as shown in FIG. 9.

Then, the user touches a special function key 1312 b displayed ondisplay panel 132 so that a function setup screen 1312 a is displayed ondisplay panel 132 as shown in FIG. 10. The user then selects thehigh-volume document mode and sets up the image output conditions whenscanned documents in high-volume document mode is output.

Further, the user touches scan-in key 5102 to start document reading asshown in FIG. 11. In this case, a plurality of documents of, for exampleA4 size are set in long-edge feed orientation in document reader 102(FIG. 1).

When the documents are scanned by document reader 102, a display imageof a document sheaf consisting of multiple documents is generated basedon the image data of the scanned multiple documents by display imagegenerator 137 (FIG. 7), and a first document sheaf PP11 (previouslyscanned document sheaf) is displayed in the center of preview region3000, as shown in FIG. 12. At this time, the image information on thefront page of the scanned documents is displayed on the first documentsheaf image PP11. The display of scan-in key 5102 is changed from “STARTSCANNING” to “ADDITIONAL SCAN”. In this stage, setup of the image outputconditions for the next document can be modified by touching a setupchange key 5109. Though in the present embodiment, setup change key 5109is shown in a descriptive manner with “Change Settings and Read NextDocument”, the key should not be limited to this. That is, anydescriptive form, symbol (including an icon) or the likely may be usedas long as it can make the user understand that the key is one that theuser should press or operate when the setup of image output conditionsfor the next document is modified.

Then, when additional reading is implemented, a second document sheafimage (additional document sheaf image) PP12 is generated by displayimage generator 137 as shown in FIG. 13, based on the image data ofadditionally scanned, multiple documents and displayed in preview region3000. The second document sheaf image PP12 is displayed in the same sizeas the first document sheaf image PP11 and overlapped behind firstdocument sheaf image PP11. That is, the second document sheaf image PP12is laid out with part of it exposed from behind the first document sheafimage PP11 so as to have its existence recognized.

Though in example 1, preview display is given in preview region 3000 byplacing document sheaf PP11 over part of document sheaf PP12, as avariational example page-flip buttons 1312 c 1 and 1312 c 2 may bedisplayed on both sides (at one of the sides when the first or lastdocument sheaf image is displayed) of the preview of document sheaf PP1n in preview region 3000, as shown in FIG. 14.

With this arrangement it is possible to easily display the sheaves ofdocuments that have been scanned initially or additionally, by touchingpage-flip buttons 1312 c 1 or 1312 c 2.

Next description will be made on a case of image output in example 1when the setup of the image output conditions for the documents to beadditionally scanned in high-volume document mode is modified.

FIG. 15A is an illustrative view showing a state where the setup ofimage output conditions is modified at the time of additional reading inhigh-volume document mode in the image forming apparatus of example 1.FIG. 15B is an illustrative view showing the state of image output inhigh-volume document mode.

In image forming apparatus 100, when, in high-volume document mode the“2 in 1” setting in the image output conditions at the first imagereading has been changed to the “4 in 1” setting at the second imagereading, documents are captured as shown in FIG. 15A. Here, the imageoutput condition “N in 1” is the setting for forming N document imageson one page of recording paper. Accordingly, the “2 in 1” setting is toform two document images on one page of recording paper, whereas the “4in 1” setting is to form four document images on one page of recordingpaper.

The image output at this time is given such that document sheaf PP11scanned at the first scanning is output in “2 in 1” mode while documentsheaf PP12 scanned at and after the second scanning is output in “4 in1” mode as shown in FIG. 15B. Here, a symbol PP11 a indicates the outputimages of document sheaf PP11, and PP12 a the output images of documentsheaf PP12.

Example 2

Example 2 shows a case where document reading is set in normal mode inimage forming apparatus 100 and additional document scanning isimplemented.

FIG. 16 is an illustrative view showing an initial screen in copy modein the image forming apparatus of example 2. FIG. 17 is an illustrativeview showing a display screen on which preview of a document sheaf isdisplayed after document reading has been completed in the image formingapparatus.

When documents to be copied are read in normal mode in image formingapparatus 100, the user displays the initial screen in copy mode anddirectly touches scan-in key 5102 to start document reading as shown inFIG. 16.

When the documents are scanned by document reader 102, a display imageof a document sheaf consisting of multiple documents is generated basedon the image data of the scanned multiple documents by display imagegenerator 137, and a first document sheaf PP21 is displayed in thecenter of preview region 3000, as shown in FIG. 17. At this time, theimage information on the front page of the scanned documents isdisplayed on the first document sheaf PP21. The display of scan-in key5102 is changed from “START SCANNING” to “ADDITIONAL SCAN”.

Then, when additional reading is implemented, the user touches scan-inkey 5102 to actuate additional reading.

Next description will be made on one image output case in example 2 whenthe setup of the image output conditions for the documents to beadditionally scanned in normal mode is modified.

FIG. 18A is an illustrative view showing a state where the setup ofimage output conditions is modified in normal mode at the time ofadditional reading in the image forming apparatus of example 2. FIG. 18Bis an illustrative view showing the state of image output in normalmode.

In image forming apparatus 100, when, in normal mode, the “2 in 1”setting in the image output conditions at the first image reading hasbeen changed to the “4 in 1” setting at the second image reading,documents are captured as shown in FIG. 18A.

At this time, the image output of document sheaf PP21 scanned at thefirst scanning is set with the same settings, i.e., the modifiedsettings, for document sheaf P22 scanned at and after the secondreading, so that the whole output is given as “4 in 1” output imagesPP21 a as shown in FIG. 18B.

As described above, in image forming apparatus 100 including controlunit 120 having a function of setting up image output conditions forimages to be output based on input image data, control unit-sidecontroller 131 of control unit 120 includes function setup controller1312, function setup screen preparation controller 1313 and functionsetup screen display controller 1314, function setup controller 1312includes high-volume document mode having a function of reading multipledocuments by a multiple number of times to form multiple documentsheaves, and the high-volume document mode includes an individual setupfunction for setting up individual image output conditions for eachdocument sheaf among the scanned multiple sheaves of documents and anall-in setup function for setting up the same image output conditionsfor all the scanned multiple sheaves of documents. Accordingly, it ispossible for the user to select the image output settings in accordancewith the finish the user wants, by selecting an appropriate mode foreach job, for example, setting up “4 in 1” setting in addition to “2 in1” setting, or modifying the whole output setting into “4 in 1” setting.

The above embodiment and examples were described taking cases in whichcontrol unit 120 is applied to image forming apparatus 100 shown inFIG. 1. However, as long as it is an image forming apparatus thatincludes a control unit having a function setup means including afunction of setting output image conditions of images to be output, theinvention can be applied to any other image forming apparatus and thelike, not limited to the image forming apparatus and copier having theconfiguration described above.

Though the above embodiment and examples were described taking caseswhere each document sheaf is composed of multiple documents, it goeswithout saying that the invention includes a case where each documentsheaf is composed of a single document.

Having described heretofore, the present invention is not limited to theabove embodiment and examples, various changes can be made within thescope of the appended claims. That is, it is apparent that various kindsof variations and modified examples will occur to those skilled in theart within the scope of the appended claims. That is, any embodied modeobtained by combination of technical means modified as appropriatewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the present inventionshould be included in the technical art of the present invention.

1. (canceled)
 2. An image forming apparatus capable of inputting adocument as image data wherein when image data is input from thedocument placed on a document table, the image forming apparatus isconfigured, even after the image data has been previously input, to becapable of additionally inputting image data.
 3. The image formingapparatus according to claim 2, wherein the image forming apparatus isconfigured to be capable of receiving instructions for starting ofoutput of the previously input image data before the additional input ofthe image data.
 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2,wherein the image forming apparatus is configured to be capable ofdisplaying an image forming condition set up for the previously inputimage data before the additional input of the image data.
 5. The imageforming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the image formingapparatus is configured to be capable of changing an image formingcondition before the additional input of the image data.
 6. The imageforming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when an image formingcondition is changed before the additional input of the image data, thechanged image forming condition is made valid for the image data beinginput previously and for the image data to be input additionally.
 7. Theimage forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the image formingapparatus has an additional input mode, when an image forming conditionis changed before the additional input of the image data in a statewhere the additional input mode is set up to be valid, the change ismade valid for the image data to be input additionally.
 8. A controlmethod for an image forming apparatus capable of inputting a document asimage data, the method comprising: an image data inputting step ofinputting image data from the document placed on a document table; animage data additional inputting step of, even after the image data hasbeen previously input by the image data inputting step, inputting imagedata additionally.